Having long, thick hair is a goal many people share, but it can sometimes feel impossible to achieve.
With so much information at our fingertips, it can be hard to know where to start for optimal hair growth.
One trainee trichologist named Sofia believes every hair growth journey starts with a good shampoo.
Opting for products that contain key ingredients like caffeine, in particular, can support growth in different ways, she explained.
Caffeine may boost hair shaft elongation by 46 per cent
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“If you’re losing hair, get a shampoo with caffeine in it," Sofia said. "It blocks DHT on the scalp and also increases intracellular energy, which allows for cell division in the matrix - the part of the hair follicle responsible for hair growth.
“Lastly, it increases circulation in the scalp, improving microcirculation. It is not the same as minoxidil, which enhances circulation and improves blood flow much more significantly, but it is still helpful if you are experiencing hair loss or shedding. It is also a very affordable treatment for hair loss.”
In 2007, researchers discovered that applying a caffeine solution to human hair follicles boosted hair shaft elongation by 46 per cent.
It also extended the growth phase of hair, suggesting caffeine could counteract the shrinking of hair follicles.
Additional findings published in Skin Pharmacology and Physiology in 2007 revealed that caffeine penetrates the scalp and inhibits the hormone linked to hereditary hair loss.
“I wouldn’t recommend this as a standalone treatment - I would make sure you’re incorporating other methods if you want to see hair growth.
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Shampoos containing caffeine may stimulate blood flow
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“Using a caffeine shampoo alongside minoxidil and other treatments will always give you the best results.
“That’s the case with any product - there is no miracle solution. For hair loss, you need a complete routine and consistency.”
The hair expert has previously described minoxidil and derma-rollers as two additional non-negotiable steps in her hair care routine.
"I have androgenic alopecia, which is also known as female pattern baldness and that basically means I have hair loss and hair thinning, but I have managed to grow my hair really long and thick," she told her TikTok followers in a separate clip.
